The rain clouds kept away for the Gathering Square Pavilion Fort Scott Farmers Market Ribbon Cutting on North National Avenue today.

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lindsay Madison thanked the T-Mobile communication business, who, a few years ago gave a  $50,000 grant to start the pavilion.

The City of Fort Scott, Regional Economic Development Inc., Healthy Bourbon County Team, the Fort Scott  Area Community Foundation, and others helped make this vision a reality, Matthew Wells, FS City Councilman and one who spearheaded the project, said.

Wells said the new pavilion’s land sits where the original Fort Scott Farmer’s Market was 100 years ago.

City Manager Brad Matkin said the pavilion is a wonderful asset to the community….and more are coming.

REDI Director Rob Herrington said it was a collaborative effort and “Together we can make things happen.”

The ribbon cutting was celebrated on the opening day of the Fort Scott Farmers Market (FSFM), May 4.

FSFM President Terri Hamilton said the vendors are “thankful for the covered space.” She noted that there are 24 slots in the Pavillion and 32 vendors, and they are “working hard to coordinate with the new vendors.”

The activities for the day: live music, face painting, children’s games, cotton candy, Bourbon County Garden Club Plant Sale, Breakfast on the Bricks by Scout Troop 114, and of course the vendors with local produce and crafts.

The farmer’s market is open 8  a.m. to noon on Saturdays and 4-6 p.m. on Tuesdays from May to October.